No one wants rats or mice in their home — but harsh poisons can be dangerous for children, pets, and wildlife. Luckily, there are natural repellents and practical tips that can discourage rodents and keep your space clean and safe.
Natural Repellents to Try
✅ Peppermint Oil
Rodents hate the strong scent of peppermint. Soak cotton balls in pure peppermint essential oil and place them near entry points, corners, under sinks, or along baseboards.
✅ Vinegar Spray
A mix of white vinegar and water (50/50) sprayed along rodent-prone areas can create an environment they dislike.
✅ Bay Leaves
Some homeowners swear by placing dried bay leaves in kitchen cabinets or pantry corners — rats and mice find their scent unappealing.
✅ Cloves or Clove Oil
Scatter whole cloves or place cotton balls soaked in clove essential oil near suspected entry points.
Keep Rodents Away for Good with Prevention
1️⃣ Seal Entry Points
Inspect your home’s exterior and seal any cracks, gaps, or holes with steel wool or caulk — even small openings can let mice in.
2️⃣ Store Food Properly
Keep dry goods in airtight containers, wipe up crumbs, and don’t leave pet food out overnight.
3️⃣ Declutter
Rodents love hiding in piles of paper, cardboard, or unused clothes. Reduce clutter to give them fewer places to nest.
4️⃣ Take Out the Trash
Use tightly sealed trash cans and remove garbage regularly to avoid attracting hungry rodents.
A Gentle Reminder
While these natural methods can repel rats and mice and keep them from coming back, they don’t instantly make rodents disappear. If you already have an infestation, it’s best to contact a professional pest control service to remove them safely.
So skip the poisons — try these natural repellents and prevention tips to make your home a place rodents won’t want to visit!
